Project: Build a Solar Charger

Recommended for High School.

Introduction

Generating electricity from fossil fuels comes with many environmental and social problems related to pollution and climate change. But in order to have a high percentage of renewable sources in our electricity mix, we need an affordable way to store large quantities of renewable energy so it will be available when electricity demand surpasses generation from the sun. We are used to getting electricity whenever we want it–not waiting for the sun to shine if we want power!

In this project, you will design a solar-powered charging system for rechargeable AA or AAA batteries. You will build a small solar array, combining at least two solar panels to charge your batteries. Your group will work together to design, test, and optimize your system for charging batteries.